Alaska Primary Care Association
Level Up Your Healthcare Career as a Dental Assistant (DA)
Dental Assistants (DA) provide patient care and support to a dentist during exams and procedures. They assist with fillings, crowns and extractions; take x-rays; talk with patients; and perform administrative tasks.
APCA’s Registered Apprenticeship Program helps you take your healthcare career to the next level, helping you earn while you learn.
Employee Benefits & Requirements:
- To participate in an apprenticeship program, you must be:
- An entry-level employee
- Currently employed
- Or starting employment, we can help you find a job
- By participating in an apprenticeship program, you will receive a minimum of two wage increases.
- The first wage increase is given halfway through the program.
- The second increase is given upon successful completion of the program – which includes class and skills.
- Some employers offer additional wage increases upon certification.
- During your apprenticeship, you must work a minimum of 35 hours per week, participate in the program, and complete all program requirements.
- In the apprenticeship program, you will receive additional support through mentorship. The mentor supports your learning and career development.
- The apprenticeship classes typically occur during working hours. You can expect to participate in classes 1-2 hours per week with some homework requirements.
- Apprenticeships are completed within one-to-two years and are program-dependent.
Employer Benefits & Requirements:
- Through partnership with the APCA, you will be connected with qualified potential applicants who have completed pre-apprenticeship training.
- By supporting existing employees in an apprenticeship program with APCA, you will save training time and resources while gaining a more skilled and knowledgeable workforce who is more equipped to meet the evolving demands of your community health center.
- As an employer, you must:
- Agree to the Department of Labor apprenticeship standards and sign an employer agreement with APCA (if one is not already in place).
- Provide flexibility to allow the apprentice to participate in online classes during working hours, approximately 1-2 hours per week.
- Provide on-the-job training with on-site mentorship.
- APCA provides support and guidance through mentor training, on-the-job training support, and many resources to ensure both the employer and employee are successful.
- As the employer supporting an apprentice, you must agree to a minimum of two wage increases:
- The first wage increase is given halfway through the program.
- The second increase is given upon successful completion of the program – which includes class and skills.
- Some employers offer additional wage increases upon certification.
- Apprenticeships are completed within one-to-two years and are program-dependent.
Questions about the Registered Apprenticeship Program?
Workforce Development & Health Equity Team